Big Sur Mac 11.7.11 cannot save Word or Excel files, read only?

Fiona Neaves 0 Reputation points
2026-09-08T05:21:27.26+00:00

I have a current 365 Family Subscription for my MAC. Wants me to update my operating system (which I cannot do right now). Also says subscription required to edit or save, and I have a valid subscription.

My Mac OS is Big Sur 11.17.11

#365 Word and Excel on Mac Big Sur

Microsoft 365 and Office | Word | Other | MacOS
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  1. GsN5034 - IA 76,475 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-09-08T05:59:29.8333333+00:00

    Hello,

    To run the Microsoft Office 365 applications on your Mac, you’ll need macOS Monterey (12) or later. Older versions of macOS (such as Big Sur 11.17.11 or earlier) are not compatible with the latest Microsoft 365/Office applications.

    Please check the Software Update settings on your Mac to see if your device can be upgraded to the next supported version of macOS.

    If your Mac cannot be upgraded to a supported version, you can use the Office app Online through your web browser.

    Alternatively, you may need to consider upgrading to a newer Mac that supports the latest macOS. So that you can run the latest office apps without any compatibility issues.

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  2. AI answer

    2026-09-08T05:21:42.1+00:00

    Big Sur 11.7.11 is below the minimum supported macOS version for current Office app updates. Starting July 13, 2026, Office on unsupported macOS versions can enter reduced functionality mode: files can be opened and printed, but not edited, saved, or created. A valid Microsoft 365 Family subscription does not override that OS requirement.

    What this means for this Mac:

    1. Big Sur is not sufficient. The minimum required macOS version is macOS 12 Monterey or later.
    2. The minimum Office app version for Mac is 16.83.
    3. On unsupported systems, Word and Excel can appear read-only even when the subscription is active.

    What can be done:

    1. Check the Mac version requirement: if the Mac can be updated to macOS 12 or later, update macOS first.
      • On Mac: Apple menu > System Settings > General > Software Update
    2. After the OS update, update Office.
      • Open any Office app
      • Select Help > Check for Updates
    3. If using Office 2021 for Mac and editing/saving still does not return after updating, quit the app completely, reopen it, then sign out and sign back in from the app’s Account settings.

    If the Mac cannot be upgraded beyond Big Sur, the installed Office apps on that Mac will remain in reduced functionality mode. In that case, the supported option in the provided information is to use Office on a supported device or update the Mac to a supported OS when possible.

    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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    1 person found this answer helpful.

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